Trial Begins for Father Accused in School Shooting Case

Tue Feb 10 2026 01:36:41 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Colin Gray faces multiple charges after his son allegedly killed two teachers and two students at a Georgia high school in September 2024. Jury selection begins in this high-profile trial, raising questions about parental responsibilities in youth violence.

Colin Gray, the father of a teenager accused of a fatal school shooting in Georgia, faces charges including second-degree murder and cruelty to children. The trial's jury selection is set to begin, highlighting the critical issue of parental accountability in violent acts committed by children. With significant media coverage, the case echoes similar instances in the U.S., where parents have been held criminally responsible for their children's actions.

ATLANTA (AP) — Jury selection is set to begin Monday in the trial of Colin Gray, whose son is accused of killing two students and two teachers at Apalachee High School on September 4, 2024.

Colin Gray faces 29 counts, including two counts of second-degree murder and two counts of involuntary manslaughter, among others. The indictment alleges he contributed to the tragic event by providing his son access to a firearm, despite warnings regarding Colt Gray's potential for violence.

The shooting resulted in the deaths of two teachers, Richard Aspinwall (39) and Cristina Irimie (53), along with two fourteen-year-old students, Mason Schermerhorn and Christian Angulo. Several others were also injured during the incident.

The Planning

According to investigators, Colt Gray meticulously planned the assault and had a subscription to a school shooter forum. Notebooks detailing step-by-step plans for the attack were found, alongside diagrams of the school layout. He used a semiautomatic rifle during the shooting, which he concealed in a book bag.

Accusations Against Colin Gray

Evidence presented in pretrial hearings suggests Colin Gray had given the gun to his son as a Christmas gift and had purchased a larger magazine at Colt's request. Despite knowing about his son's troubling fascination with past school shooters, Gray allegedly downplayed the seriousness of the situation.

The Trial

The trial is anticipated to draw significant media attention due to its emotional implications and the legal precedents it may establish regarding parental accountability in gun violence involving minors. Jury selection is set to take place in Gainesville, Georgia, to minimize potential biases from the local community.

Legal Context

The case adds to a growing national dialogue about holding parents accountable for the violent actions of their children, especially in school shooting cases. Similar instances in the U.S. have seen other parents charged under comparable circumstances. The trial for Colin Gray is expected to last several weeks, following the jury selection process.